Chasing Tomorrow

chapter 13

After Raya’s intense pre-board exam week, she welcomed the break that followed.

Finally, Some Rest

As soon as she reached home, she collapsed onto her bed, feeling the weight of the exams slip away. The quietness of her room was soothing, and she soon drifted into a deep, much-needed sleep.

The next morning, she felt refreshed, ready to enjoy her temporary freedom. For the next few days, her routine was relaxed, with late mornings, reading, and hanging out with her friends and family.

Two days later, her parents announced they’d be visiting her uncle’s house, which was a welcome change of scenery. Raya was excited, as she’d get to see her cousin, Zain, whom she hadn’t seen in a while. Zain was already 19, with a friendly, easygoing attitude that Raya always enjoyed.

When they arrived, Zain greeted them at the door, flashing a wide grin.

“Hey, Raya! Long time no see,” he said, pulling her into a quick hug. “How’s school going?”

“Exhausting,” Raya laughed, rolling her eyes. “Just finished pre-boards, so I have a bit of a break.”

As they settled in, her uncle and aunt welcomed them warmly, and soon, the conversation turned to Zain and his life. Zain shared updates about his studies, his plans for college, and even mentioned his girlfriend, which made Raya smile.

Later, as they sat outside in the backyard, Raya couldn’t help but ask Zain about his plans and what advice he had for someone facing a big year ahead.

“So, any tips for surviving the madness of boards?” she asked, half-joking, half-serious.

Zain chuckled, leaning back on his chair. “Honestly, it’s all about balance. Yeah, you have to study hard, but take breaks too. Find things that make you happy and fit them in. And remember, these exams are important, but they’re just one step in your whole life. Don’t let them weigh you down too much.”

Raya nodded thoughtfully. “Makes sense. It’s just, you know, sometimes it feels like everything depends on this one year.”

“I get it. But trust me, you’ll look back and realize it wasn’t as overwhelming as it seems now. Just work hard, but don’t lose yourself in the process.”

Their conversation continued, drifting from school and exams to their future dreams. Zain’s words encouraged Raya, and she felt a bit lighter, more confident about the months ahead.

They returned home that evening, tired but happy from the family visit. As Raya was settling down, she got a call from Lili.

“Raya! You’re finally free, right?” Lili asked excitedly.

Raya laughed. “Yeah, what’s up?”

“We should totally do something before we get buried in studying again. How about a picnic?”

Raya’s eyes lit up at the idea. “That sounds amazing! We haven’t all hung out properly in ages.”

They decided to organize a picnic day and started discussing ideas and logistics in their group chat.

Raya quickly texted the group:

Raya: “Lili’s got a great idea! Let’s plan a picnic. We can just relax, have fun, maybe play some games!”

The chat was flooded with replies within seconds.

Josh: “I’m in! Food and sunshine? Count me in.”

Raiza: “Same! We’ll bring everything we need.”

Jake: “Sure, I’ll even bring the snacks.”

The excitement was contagious, and soon enough, they had planned the whole day, settling on a park nearby with plenty of space and scenic views.

As the group chat buzzed with final plans, Raya felt grateful for her friends and family. It was moments like these that reminded her there was more to life than exams and expectations. This day with her friends would be a chance to just enjoy being young, carefree, and surrounded by people who meant the world to her.

With plans set, she headed to bed that night, a sense of joy and anticipation filling her. The next chapter in her life would be challenging, but for now, she was determined to embrace each small moment, savoring every laugh and memory they would make at the picnic.